The College Council has been evaluating SRJC’s governance structure to improve clarity and create a more cohesive decision-making process. The purpose of this message is to provide a high-level overview of the proposed new structure, including recommended changes to individual committees. This has been a thorough, thoughtful, and collaborative effort that included a comprehensive survey of existing committees, as well as a review of committee charges, roles, responsibilities, and decision-making pathways. We are grateful to the many individuals who contributed to shaping and refining this framework.

One key challenge of the previous structure was ambiguity in decision-making processes and the flow of recommendations. The new structure, pictured below, provides a clear framework and defined paths for recommendations:

• Central Committees provide recommendations that support the District’s mission, goals, and operational plans. These committees hold final recommendation authority on District-wide matters, except where restricted by legal statutes, board policies, or agreements.
• Operational Committees serve specialized roles, such as supporting negotiated elements of collective bargaining agreements or addressing institutional functions like technology, facilities, and professional development.
• Academic Senate Consultation Committees function as operational committees focused on professional and academic matters specifically designated for faculty.

Next Steps

Committee chairs recently received specific details outlining any changes to their respective committee structure and will be reaching out to committee members to review the information. We encourage you to contact your constituent group leaders and bring forward any questions you may have. Component area Vice Presidents are available to attend committee meetings to provide clarification and respond to questions.  

If you would like to see each committee structure click here.

The final participatory governance structure will be reviewed by College Council on May 15, 2025, for recommendation and approval at the regular meeting of the Board of Trustees on June 10, 2025.  

This timeline is critical to allow for fall appointments and ensure that committees can begin their work promptly in October for the 2025–26 academic year. Calls for committee appointments from your respective constituent groups will be made in early fall.